Finland Eases Residence Permit Rules for Migrant Workers Facing Job Loss

Starting June 11, 2025, Finland allows over 51,000 migrant workers to stay in the country longer after job loss, while tightening requirements for employers.

Finland has introduced new residence permit rules aimed at protecting migrant workers whose employment ends prematurely. As of June 11, these workers will be granted between three and six months to find a new job before facing the risk of losing their legal status.

“Specialists and those who have held a residence permit for over two years will benefit from a six-month protection period,” the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) stated.

Others still qualify for a three-month period. If they fail to find a new job and cannot demonstrate another reason for remaining, their permit may be revoked.

Employers Under Scrutiny: New Reporting Obligations

While migrants benefit from relaxed rules, Finnish authorities are imposing stricter requirements on employers. As of June 11, all employers must notify Migri within 14 days of terminating an employment contract via the Enter Finland service. Non-compliance may lead to penalties.

“This change ensures faster removal of individuals no longer meeting permit conditions and improves transparency in labor migration,” said Asta Kassinen, Process Owner at Migri.

Addressing Labor Shortages in Key Sectors

Finland is actively seeking to fill vacancies in priority sectors. Migrants with valid permits who become unemployed can now apply for jobs in the most labor-scarce industries, including healthcare, construction, agriculture, and IT. The measures align with an EU directive to be adopted across the bloc starting next year.